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CRA updates: RIO streetscape kickoff set, Hope Sound property completes investment program reimbursement
Summary
The CRA reported kickoff meetings for two Rio-area design projects, said 60% plans for a streetscape are expected soon, and celebrated the twelfth completed investment program project — Diamond Garage in Hope Sound — which received an $20,000 reimbursement for property improvements.
The Martin County CRA heard project updates on capital work in CRA districts, including two Rio-area design projects that will hold stakeholder kickoff meetings May 22, and a presentation on the CRA investment program’s 12th completed project in Hope Sound.
Susan Korres of the Office of Community Development told the board that the CR 707 streetscape enhancement and the property and civic center design projects in Rio will each have stakeholder kickoff meetings on May 22. Korres said the same consultant team will work on both projects to save costs and coordinate shared surveying, underground work and outreach. Dwight Cuerta, program manager, told the board staff have sent comments back to the consultant and that 60% plans should arrive soon.
Jana Cox of the Office of Community Development presented the investment program’s latest completion: Diamond Garage at 11690 Southeast Dixie Highway in Hope Sound. The applicant completed property improvements in April 2025 including replacement hurricane-resistant windows and two historic-style garage doors, new gravel and landscaping, and painting. Cox said the total project cost was $26,006 and the CRA reimbursed up to 80%, with a reimbursement paid in May 2025 of $20,000.
Cox and board members discussed how the investment program targets six CRA areas and that funding levels vary by district; Hope Sound has available funds and did not require additional CRA dollars this year. Cox said availability is decided during the countywide CIP process and by individual NAC recommendations. Board members noted the property improvements often lead applicants to invest additional funds such as lighting upgrades.
Cox also showed an initiative to replace historic light fixtures with solar-powered domes made by a vendor working with the Hope Sound Historic Society; the CRA plans to include similar fixtures in the Dixie streetscape project where appropriate. No formal motions accompanied the capital-project updates; staff will continue coordinating stakeholder meetings and consultant deliverables.
